West Sand Draw Cat Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Greder Dam Snyder Group Dam
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
West Sand Draw Cat Dam, located in Niobrara, Nebraska, was completed in 1982 by the USDA NRCS with a primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the W Sand Draw river.
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Summary
This earth dam stands at a structural height of 35 feet and spans 1600 feet in length, with a maximum storage capacity of 1147 acre-feet and a normal storage of 151 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is regularly inspected by state regulators, with the last assessment conducted in March 2018, revealing a satisfactory condition.
Managed by the local government, this dam plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events, with a maximum discharge capacity of 2090 cubic feet per second. The dam's stone core and soil foundation are designed to withstand hydraulic pressures, ensuring the safety and reliability of the structure. With a drainage area of 7.2 square miles and a surface area of 30 acres, the dam serves as a vital asset in mitigating flood risks and safeguarding the community's water resources in Brown County, Nebraska. As climate change continues to impact weather patterns, structures like West Sand Draw Cat Dam play a vital role in adapting to and mitigating the effects of extreme weather events on water resources and infrastructure.
Year Completed |
1982 |
Dam Length |
1600 |
Dam Height |
34 |
River Or Stream |
W SAND DRAW |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
30 |
Hydraulic Height |
33 |
Drainage Area |
7.2 |
Nid Storage |
1147 |
Structural Height |
35 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
35 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Long Pine Creek Near Riverview
|
175cfs |
Niobrara River Near Sparks
|
1160cfs |
Keya Paha R At Wewela Sd
|
54cfs |
Keya Paha R Near Keyapaha Sd
|
33cfs |
Niobrara River At Mariaville
|
1530cfs |
North Loup R At Brewster
|
495cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.
Hazard Potential Classification
HighDams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.
West Sand Draw Cat Dam